(OTTAWA) – Canadian farmers have finally succeeded in getting their issues into the center of the national election debate. Last night Canada’s national party leaders, in the third of four debates, were required to answer a question on agriculture policy. Since December Canadian farmers have flooded the national media lines with questions about agriculture, following a call by the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) and its members.

“Agriculture is finally taking its place as a priority issue in an election, thanks to the work of all Canadian farmers who would not let their voice be ignored,” said Bob Friesen, CFA President.

Last night’s question noted the farm income crisis and the decreasing number of farmers in Canada. CFA was pleased to hear all candidates recognize the deficiencies of the CAIS program and reiterate their support for supply management. However the leaders’ statements were all lacking any longer-term vision for turning around the farm-income crisis. Individually the leaders also made important statements in their answers. Paul Martin recognized the efficiency of Canadian farmers and how they are being impacted by unfair subsidies. Jack Layton promised a billion dollars to the grains and oilseeds sector, addressing the critical issue of meeting the immediate short-term need. On trade negotiations Stephen Harper addressed the need to expand global market access for Canadian producers.

CFA urges all parties to continue to continue to address agriculture issues and put them at the forefront of their campaigns. On Friday, January 13, CFA will host its own election debate on agriculture policy, featuring Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Andy Mitchell and agriculture critics Diane Finley, Charlie Angus and André Bellavance. The debate will be broadcast live on CPAC, and will be accessible by webcast and telephone conference call. Details can be found on the CFA web site: www.cfa-fca.ca

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Founded in 1935 to provide Canada's farmers with a single voice in Ottawa, the Canadian Federation of Agriculture is the country's largest farmers' organization. Its members include provincial general farm organizations as well as national and inter-provincial commodity organizations from every province. Through its members, CFA represents over 200,000 Canadian farmers and farm families.